LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, DC
Dr. Daniel Kraning
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
While some of my interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns or members of the LGBT+ community, I am prepared to help each and every person that I can.
Through video Telehealth sessions, two main therapy approaches I use are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Existential Therapy. In CBT, I am able to help you understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option, if desired, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, I help you to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. Click on my website link for more information about me and the approaches used.
While some of my interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns or members of the LGBT+ community, I am prepared to help each and every person that I can.
Through video Telehealth sessions, two main therapy approaches I use are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Existential Therapy. In CBT, I am able to help you understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option, if desired, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, I help you to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. Click on my website link for more information about me and the approaches used.
Morgan Summers-Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, OCD, PTSD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, OCD, PTSD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Lauren Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
Oz Ezkibel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
As a Latino Queer Therapist, I have learned that understanding the intersections of my identities and how I show up in multiple spaces has been imperative to my personal growth and my understanding of belonging. Growing up, I always felt othered and often times unwanted. Therapy for me is about learning to understand our inner dialogues, validate our emotional experiences, and effect change in a way that is consistent with our desired narrative.
As a Latino Queer Therapist, I have learned that understanding the intersections of my identities and how I show up in multiple spaces has been imperative to my personal growth and my understanding of belonging. Growing up, I always felt othered and often times unwanted. Therapy for me is about learning to understand our inner dialogues, validate our emotional experiences, and effect change in a way that is consistent with our desired narrative.
I offer transformative therapy for LGBTQIA+ individuals & trauma survivors.
My ideal client is someone who seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their identity and experiences. They may be navigating the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or coping with trauma. Their needs include understanding, validation, and practical strategies for managing emotions and relationships. Their goals revolve around healing, self-acceptance, and finding fulfillment. They want to live authentically and thrive in a world that sometimes feels unwelcoming. They seek therapy because they believe in the power of self-discovery and growth, and they're ready to invest in their well-being.
I offer transformative therapy for LGBTQIA+ individuals & trauma survivors.
My ideal client is someone who seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their identity and experiences. They may be navigating the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or coping with trauma. Their needs include understanding, validation, and practical strategies for managing emotions and relationships. Their goals revolve around healing, self-acceptance, and finding fulfillment. They want to live authentically and thrive in a world that sometimes feels unwelcoming. They seek therapy because they believe in the power of self-discovery and growth, and they're ready to invest in their well-being.
Danielle Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, kink-affirming, and see clients in ethically non-monogamous and monogamous relationships.
Hi, I’m Danielle. I’m a reproductive rights advocate turned therapist. Many of us experience being "othered" – judged or excluded – because of our gender, race, who we love, how our brain is wired, and more. I see therapy as a collaboration that empowers you to be your whole, authentic self and make real change for YOU. Together, we’ll explore your many sources of strength and solutions to cultivate greater well-being, joy, ease, connection, and belonging in your life and relationships. In session, I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space. Clients tell me that I have a calming presence and they feel seen and heard.
I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, kink-affirming, and see clients in ethically non-monogamous and monogamous relationships.
Hi, I’m Danielle. I’m a reproductive rights advocate turned therapist. Many of us experience being "othered" – judged or excluded – because of our gender, race, who we love, how our brain is wired, and more. I see therapy as a collaboration that empowers you to be your whole, authentic self and make real change for YOU. Together, we’ll explore your many sources of strength and solutions to cultivate greater well-being, joy, ease, connection, and belonging in your life and relationships. In session, I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space. Clients tell me that I have a calming presence and they feel seen and heard.
Joseph LaFleur & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
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Understanding the complexities of navigating queerness in a cis-heteronormative world can be an isolating experience. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ individuals to find affirming and authentic ways of being. I help clients unlearn who they have been taught they “should” be and empower them to be themselves. I am committed to helping clients increase their confidence, develop a strong sense of identity, and relieve tension in interpersonal relationships. I guide clients toward personal growth as well as healing through finding harmony in their relationships with others.
Understanding the complexities of navigating queerness in a cis-heteronormative world can be an isolating experience. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ individuals to find affirming and authentic ways of being. I help clients unlearn who they have been taught they “should” be and empower them to be themselves. I am committed to helping clients increase their confidence, develop a strong sense of identity, and relieve tension in interpersonal relationships. I guide clients toward personal growth as well as healing through finding harmony in their relationships with others.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
Micki Duran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and other minorities.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and other minorities.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
RS Davis Health & Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20020 (Online Only)
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step on your healing journey! My name is Sonjiah Davis, most people call me Adwoa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20+ years of experience. My favorite populations to work with are individuals in the LGBTQ+ communities, individuals from immigrant families especially from Africa and the Caribbean, young adults trying to navigate the world of aduIting, women who have survived abusive relationships working to reclaim their lives, and individuals with religious trauma. I look forward to assisting you on your journey to be the best person you envision yourself to be.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step on your healing journey! My name is Sonjiah Davis, most people call me Adwoa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20+ years of experience. My favorite populations to work with are individuals in the LGBTQ+ communities, individuals from immigrant families especially from Africa and the Caribbean, young adults trying to navigate the world of aduIting, women who have survived abusive relationships working to reclaim their lives, and individuals with religious trauma. I look forward to assisting you on your journey to be the best person you envision yourself to be.
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
Jamy Drapeza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045 (Online Only)
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
Paul El-Meouchy
Counselor, MA, LPA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
I have a passion for working with those who have experienced trauma(s) and those in the LGBTQ+ community (of which I am proudly a part of). I believe that everyone deserves to heal from their past and live authentically in the present. I previously worked at the Whitman Walker Health Clinic with people of all different backgrounds, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience working with people experiencing PTSD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I have a passion for working with those who have experienced trauma(s) and those in the LGBTQ+ community (of which I am proudly a part of). I believe that everyone deserves to heal from their past and live authentically in the present. I previously worked at the Whitman Walker Health Clinic with people of all different backgrounds, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience working with people experiencing PTSD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.